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Guides · Florida Law

Handyman vs. Licensed Contractor in Florida: What’s Legal?

In Florida, a lot of home work does not require a state contractor license — but some absolutely does. Knowing the line protects you from an unlicensed job gone wrong.

Cosmetic and maintenance work — painting, flooring, cabinets, countertops, tile, assembly, mounting, pressure washing, pavers, drywall patching, doors and hardware — generally does not require a contractor license. That covers the vast majority of a homeowner’s to-do list.

Where a license IS required

Our rule is simple and we don’t bend it: we do the unlicensed-safe work ourselves, and anything that needs a licensed electrician, plumber or roofer goes to a vetted licensed partner. That’s the “we got a guy” part. And note — pulling a permit isn’t the same as being a general contractor; some work can be permitted without one.

On the Emerald Coast? Not sure which side of the line your job is on? Ask us — we’ll tell you straight. One call for the whole list — (850) 828-0281 or get a free quote.

Can a handyman remodel a kitchen or bathroom in Florida?

The cosmetic parts — cabinets, countertops, tile, backsplash, flooring, painting and fixtures that reuse existing hookups — can be done without a contractor license. Moving plumbing or electrical, or anything needing a permit, is handled by a licensed partner.

Is a handyman allowed to install cameras?

Plug-in and Wi-Fi cameras (Ring, Nest, Blink, Wyze) and video doorbells, yes. Hardwired, monitored alarm systems are licensed low-voltage work in Florida, so those go to a licensed partner.

Should I hire an unlicensed person for electrical or plumbing?

No — those are licensed trades in Florida for good reason. We won’t do them unlicensed, and neither should anyone else. We connect you with a vetted licensed pro instead.

We Got A Guy Handyman — your Emerald Coast handyman for assembly, mounting, kitchen & bath refresh, flooring, pavers, repairs and hauling from Destin to Navarre. Licensed-trade work referred to vetted partners. ← More from the blog